Trainline has appointed Ian Brown, the former UK and Ireland boss of Flutter Entertainment, the owner of Paddy Power, as its new chief executive. Brown will join the ticketing and rail travel platform on September 7 for a handover period before officially taking on the top role on September 28, succeeding Jody Ford.
Departure of Jody Ford
Ford announced in February that he planned to leave after more than six years with the company. Under his leadership, Trainline navigated a turbulent period and saw its UK net ticket sales more than double.
Ian Brown's Background
Brown previously served as chief executive of Flutter Entertainment's UK and Ireland division. Before that, he headed up ANS Group, a technology and managed services provider. His career also includes leading the trips business unit at Booking.com, the online travel agency.
Chairman's Statement
Brian McBride, Trainline's chairman, said: “Ian brings a strong track record in scaling digital platforms and marketplace businesses, with significant experience in online travel. I look forward to working closely with Ian to build on the momentum Trainline has generated as Europe’s leading rail app.”
Market Reaction
Despite the announcement, Trainline's shares fell 5%. The stock has been under pressure over the past year, declining by nearly a quarter. Panmure Liberum analyst Sean Kealy noted the move “looks like a good appointment given (his) experience at Booking.com.”
Challenges Ahead
Trainline operates in a fast-changing market, impacted by the rollout of the Government's contactless payment network across UK stations. This allows passengers to tap-in and tap-out with bank cards, paying the best fare available at that time. There are concerns over the effect on Trainline's UK consumer division, though the company also has operations across Europe and is benefiting from rail liberalisation and increased competition on the Continent.
Brown's Vision
Brown commented: “Trainline has built a strong customer proposition by continually innovating to make rail travel easier for millions of people across the UK and Europe. It is a business with real purpose, scale and significant opportunities ahead.”
